Pembroke prides itself on its strong ties to the military and nearby Fort Stewart.

The city will showcase that pride Memorial Day Weekend, when it again serves as a transition stop for relay teams participating in the annual Run Across Georgia Run-Bike for the Flag from May 25-29.

The event includes hundreds of individual runners, relay teams and bikers racing 260 miles from Savannah to Columbus. Now in its eighth year, Run for Heroes has raised more than $500,000 while honoring those “who champion the American Spirit,” according to a letter from organizer John Teeples.

Among the beneficiaries of the event in 2016 are The House of Heroes-Chattahoochee Valley Chapter, Make a Wish-Georgia and Camp Abilities. 

This year, teams participating in Run for Heroes are expected to enter Pembroke between 7:30 a.m. and noon on May 28, and will stop at American Legion Post 164 on Highway 280.

“Anyone who has available time and would like to cheer them on, we'd love for them to come on out,” said Downtown Development Authority Director Sharroll Fanslau.

Those wishing to volunteer or make a donation can contact Fanslau at (912) 653-4413.

Pembroke's annual Memorial Day Observance will be held 11 a.m. May 30 downtown near Heritage Bank. Sponsored by American Legion Post 164 and organized by the post's new Flag Committee, the event will include a service and the placement of three new flags in honor of servicemen, Fanslau said. Those honored this year are Wallace H. Wiggins Sr., a Marine who served in the Korean War; Jim Sullivan Sr., an Army veteran from World War II; and Merrill E. Bacon, who served in the Coast Guard during World War II.

After the service, organizers will place new flags on veteran's graves at the city cemetery. Those who want to participate are welcome to take part.

“Everyone is invited to assist,” Fanslau noted.